Letter to Director Godfrey, Immigration and Customs Enforcement Official - Investigate Unjustified Questioning of U.S. Citizen in Washington County

Letter

Dear Director Godfrey:

We were greatly disturbed to read an account in the Oregonian of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempting to detain a US citizen, Isidro Andrade-Tafolla, outside of the Washington County Courthouse on September 18, 2017. As Oregon officials have repeatedly made clear, targeting immigration enforcement in areas near courthouses deters individuals from accessing our justice system and is contrary to the fair administration of law in Oregon. More seriously, targeting U.S. citizens on the basis of race is a clear violation of their constitutional rights.

Based on Isidro's account, the ICE agents demanded both his name and identification, yet the agents never explained why the information was needed. The ICE agents, furthermore, failed to identify themselves during their questioning. If true, this is contrary to our understanding of how federal officials faithfully execute the law.

We urge an investigation into the events which occurred outside of the Washington County Courthouse. Demanding identification from United States citizens is unacceptable. Should the account in the Oregonian of the event be corroborated by an internal investigation, please describe to us the nature of any retraining or discipline that would result

Additionally, to help us better understand how these events could occur, please supply answers to the following questions:

Under ICE procedures, can ICE agents remain anonymous when they choose to detain or question a person? If so, please provide us the legal authority authorizing this practice.
If ICE agents conceal their identity during attempts to detain individuals, please provide evidence demonstrating that this practice improves public safety.
Under what legal authority can ICE agents demand the identification of United States citizens when questioning a person?
We look forward to your responses. At minimum, we hope that your agency sees fit to apologize to Mr. Andrade-Tafolla for this mistreatment.

Sincerely,

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